Hood River County Commission Chair Ron Rivers announced he will not run for re-election.  Rivers, who is entering his 12th year in the position, made the announcement at Tuesday evening’s Commission meeting.  Rivers says he feels like he still have things to give to the county, “but it’s time for new blood,” adding “change is inevitable, and I think it’s positive.”  Rivers did add he will be busy during his last year as Commission chair.  The most critical issue will be dealing with the County’s budget crunch, as Commissioners prepare to consider putting a sales tax measure on the May ballot.  Hearings on that topic are planned for Feburary.  Commissioners Bob Benton and Karen Joplin indicated at the meeting they will be seeking re-election to their positions this year.